CHM Sarabjit Singh SC

CHM Sarabjit Singh hailed from Punjab had the inclination to join the Armed Forces since his childhood. He continued to pursue his passion and eventually got selected to join the Army after completing his education. He was commissioned into 10 Sikh LI battalion of the Sikh Light Infantry Regiment, an infantry Regiment well known for its fearless soldiers and numerous battle honours. 

Poonch Operation: 27/28 Jan 2006

During 2005-6, CHM Sarabjit Singh’s unit was deployed in J & K area and was engaged in counter-insurgency operations on a frequent basis. His unit’s area of responsibility fell in Poonch district and was prone to infiltration by the militants from across the border. On 27 Jan 2006, the unit received information from intelligence sources about the infiltration attempt by the militants in its area of responsibility. A decision was taken by the unit to foil the attempt by laying an ambush in the suspected area. Maj James Thomas was tasked to lead the operation along with a team of soldiers to neutralize the threat of infiltration. CHM Sarabjit Singh was made part of the team that was assigned the task.  CHM Sarabjit Singh and his comrades reached the suspected area in the night of 27 Jan 2006 and laid the ambush as planned.

On 28 Jan at 0230 hours, the troops observed a group of terrorists attempting to skirt the ambush and infiltrate towards the right flank. Realizing the impending danger to own troops in the rear, Maj James Thomas moved forward to intercept the infiltrating terrorists, lobbed grenades and engaged them in a fierce firefight. In a display of commendable courage, CHM Sarabjit Singh and his comrades succeeded in eliminating four terrorists. However, during this heavy exchange of fire, CHM Sarabjit Singh also sustained grave injuries.  Despite being seriously injured, he continued to engage the terrorists as the situation demanded. However he soon succumbed to his injuries and was martyred. CHM Sarabjit Singh was a gritty and committed soldier, who laid down his life in the service of the nation, following the highest traditions of the Army.

CHM Sarabjit Singh was given  the gallantry award, “Shaurya Chakra” for his extraordinary courage, devotion to duty and supreme sacrifice.